Comparative Analysis of User Perception and Step Length Using Toe Separating , Contoured Sandals versus Thong Style Flip-Flops
the expectation of instability during locomotion arises , the walker will intuitively shorten his or her step length [ 20 ] . This suggests that the participants using TSCS in this study may have increased their step length due their increased perception of stability . Study limitations include a relatively small number of subjects and that only females were included in the study . To fully understand the impact of TSCS on effective ambulation requires further studies . Expanding the inclusion criteria to include a male population , older individuals , and persons with biomechanical or neuromuscular deformity would provide for additional data to support of the benefits of TSCS . Additionally , persons with pathologic foot types could be included in longitudinal studies to determine benefits of long-term use of TSCS in these individuals . Finally , in order to allow for more finite analysis , radiographic criteria and kinematic analysis should be included in future studies to help further explain the findings of the current study . In conclusion , TSCS is perceived as a supportive and stable choice of open-toe footwear . In addition , an increase on step length is observed when compared to traditional thong style flip-flops . — PFA
Acknowledgements
The authors of this work would like to thank Drs . Anthony Iorio , Randy Cohen and Eileen Chusid for guidance and support during this research . The team is in deep gratitude to Donald Erickson for his dedicated effort with data calculations . The team also thanks Joseph S . Coppola for his contributions during the submission process of this work . This work was partly supported by a grant from Wellrox ® company ( http :// wellrox . com /).
Grant & Financial Support
Wellrox ® Company
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